DPG Statement on Unveiling of Dr. Martin Luther King. Jr. Statue

Atlanta, GA – Democratic Party of Georgia Chair DuBose Porter issued the following statement on today’s unveiling of the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. memorial at the State Capitol.

“Fifty-four years ago today, hundreds of thousands of Americans came together in Washington D.C. to hear the vision and belief of a better country from a Baptist minister from Georgia. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s call for economic and social justice stirred the conscience of a nation, tapping into the best of this great country.

“More than half a decade later, the State of Georgia has finally honored this great man with a presence on the grounds of our State Capitol. It is our hope that this memorial will serve as a reminder of our moral obligation to live up to his greater expectations for this nation—equality, fairness, opportunity, and justice for every single human being.

“Georgia Democrats commend DPG Chair Emeritus and state representative Calvin Smyre for his leadership in actualizing this monument and commend his distinguished career of fighting for Dr. King’s ideals.

“Monuments and statues alone are certainly not enough to truly honor the legacy of one of our country’s greatest patriots. It is incumbent upon all of us to wake up every day committed to the building of a future of inclusion and opportunity for all Americans. We must speak out against hatred, bigotry, and racism wherever they may dwell—for those un-American values spawn the senseless violence that continues to permeate and poison our communities. Dr. King’s legacy does not dwell in a monument, but in each and every one of our hearts. We help achieve that more perfect union Dr. King gave his life for by using our hearts to love and build and uplift and empower.”